John Townsend (BA ’77, MBA ’82) and Marree Townsend (BA ’77) thrived at UNC: “Carolina is a place that we both love. We were privileged to go to the University, and we both got fabulous educations for which we are grateful. Carolina was one of the first organizations that we felt fortunate to be able to support, and it’s been such a rewarding place to continue to give to over the years. It’s wonderful to watch our contributions making a difference.”

Joseph High (BSBA ’76) attributes much of his success to UNC Kenan-Flagler – and his father, a small-business owner. Speaking with students, High shares his lessons of experiences including the importance of “leaving the organization stronger than you found it. Be a good steward.” High and his wife, Kathleen High (BA ’78), have done just that at UNC by sharing their time, expertise and financial support.

Lewis Burton (BSBA ’65) was a trailblazer. The first Black student to graduate from UNC Kenan-Flagler, he felt he could best effect social change by developing strong relationships with his classmates. He organized intramural athletic activities and participated in student government. “It’s those relationships that are most important,” says Burton. “That’s why Carolina is so special.” Classmate Coleman Ross (BSBA ’65) established the Lewis M. Burton Master of Accounting Fellowship to honor Burton’s legacy of courage, leadership and sacrifice.

The first in his family to go to college, Ritch Allison (BSBA ’89, MBA ’95), applied to only one school: Carolina. The former Domino’s CEO treasures his Carolina ties. He and his wife, Susan Allison (BA ’89), met as students and feel a duty to give back: “We believe in creating opportunities for young people without the means, connections or resources to achieve their potential.” They established scholarships and a mentorship program. Allison has shared his time and expertise by recruiting, sponsoring STAR projects and serving on UNC Kenan-Flagler board and UNC’s Board of Trustees.

The late Rollie Tillman (BSBA ’55) left an indelible mark on Jeff Tucker (MBA ’00) and countless others. He was the father of entrepreneurship and a legend at UNC Kenan-Flagler, says Tucker. “In his class you felt safe and learned a lot, not just about the subject matter but about life.” Tillman’s greatest love was teaching and mentoring students. Almost anything we treasure about UNC Kenan-Flagler has his fingerprints on it. He was a visionary about the roles UNC could play in business and society and he delivered on that promise to shape students and influence leaders.